The holidays may be time for good cheer, but The Hartford says its research shows that is only the calm before the New Year brings on a storm of health and disability claims.
Hartford Financial Services Group Inc. says claims due to depression, respiratory illnesses and fractures jump in January.
The Hartford says its analysis of more than one million short-term disability claims over the past five years found that claims were at their lowest level overall in November and December. Then the New Year brings a flurry of disability claims related to depression, the insurer says.
“The holiday season can be a stressful time of year,” said Glenn Shapiro, vice president of claims for The Hartford. “But studies show that most Americans are happy when they’re celebrating with family and friends. Our claims records back that up. Depression claims drop to their lowest point in December and then climb in January.”
Not only are workers trying to beat the blues in the dead of winter, The Hartford says, they are struggling with sniffles and sneezes. Claims due to respiratory illnesses soar in January and peak in February.
Overall, accident-related disability claims peak in the summertime. However, there’s another secondary spike in January of accident-related claims for workers in the Northeast and Midwest.
The Hartford offers some tips to help employers keep their workers happy and healthy:
-Don’t let stress drain productivity. Provide employees with coping techniques and tools, such as an Employee Assistance Program.
-Avoid confusion about absences. Ensure your team is familiar with key company policies on topics, such as storm closings and telecommuting.
-Get ready. Arm your workforce with information about disability benefits, just in case they experience a disabling injury or illness this winter.
